Lexus UX revealed ahead of Geneva debut

Lexus has officially revealed the all-new UX crossover ahead of its global debut at the next week’s Geneva Motor Show on 6 March. The UX is the new entry-level crossover in the Japanese carmaker’s SUV portfolio and it sits below the NX.

The production-spec UX isn’t quite so flashy and outrageous compared to the UX Concept showcased back in 2016 at the Paris Motor Show. The baby UX carries the same flamboyant design language as its sibling with the iconic Spindle grille, sleek LED headlights and muscular creases all around. The wing mirrors are typical to the Lexus and can even be seen on the LS flagship while the massive vertical air vents on the bumpers carry forward the imposing character associated with Lexus cars these days. 

There is no clear image of the rear yet, but we know from the teaser that it will have an LED tail light running across the tailgate. We do get a glimpse of the cabin in the video. The interior seems more modern than most other Lexus cars, with an all-digital instrument cluster. The neatly stacked infotainment screen atop the dashboard is new and the centre console seems basic but functional.

The Japanese carmaker has patented UX 200, UX 250, and UX 250h monikers already. There is no word on the engine yet, but the patented badging hints at the same 1.8-litre four bangers attached to the Toyota’s hybrid tech. The new UX is said to replace the discontinued CT in the Lexus’ line-up.

The crossover/SUVs account for upto 60 per cent of Lexus’ sales in America alone. The UX crossover will be Lexus' answer to the likes of the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q3. Lexus wants a piece of the crossover pie which is in high demand these days. Therefore, it seems like a viable decision from the Japanese carmaker to expand its portfolio with a new entry-level crossover. More details will be revealed next week at the Geneva Motor Show.